Avoid Scams About COVID-19

For Immediate Release:  March 10, 2020

Contact Person:  Pamela Mahn,
Director, Senior Services, Oak Park Township (708) 383-8060

The website for the Administration for Community Living (ACL) https://acl.gov/ provides advice on the following:

Scammers are taking advantage of fears surrounding COVID-19.

Tips to help keep them at bay:

• Don’t click on links from sources you don’t know. They could download viruses onto your computer or device. Watch for emails claiming to be from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or experts saying that have information about the virus.
• For the most up-to-date information about the Coronavirus, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
• Ignore online offers for vaccinations. There currently are no vaccines, pills, potions, lotions, lozenges or other prescription or over-the-counter products available to treat or cure Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) — online or in stores.
• Do your homework when it comes to donations, whether through charitiesor crowdfunding sites. Don’t let anyone rush you into making a donation. If someone wants donations in cash, by gift card, or by wiring money, don’t do it.

In addition, ACL recommends following the guidance issued by state and local health departments, and watch the CDC website for the latest national information.

Dial 1-800-889-3931 or email DPH.SICK@ILLINOIS.GOV to have all your COVID-19 questions answered.